How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Northern State Correctional Facility.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Northern State Correctional Facility is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Northern State Correctional Facility.

Frequently asked questions about Northern State Correctional Facility

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Northern State Correctional Facility.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Northern State Correctional Facility?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Northern State Correctional Facility?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Northern State Correctional Facility. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Northern State Correctional Facility. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Northern State Correctional Facility?

   Mailing address:

   Northern State Correctional Facility
   2559 Glen Rd
   Newport, VT 05855
   Phone: (802) 334-3364

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

5. What are the visiting hours at Northern State Correctional Facility?

   Visiting hours at Northern State Correctional Facility vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (802) 334-3364 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Northern State Correctional Facility?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Northern State Correctional Facility for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Northern State Correctional Facility?

   You can send money to an inmate at Northern State Correctional Facility through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Northern State Correctional Facility?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Northern State Correctional Facility, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Northern State Correctional Facility?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Northern State Correctional Facility for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Northern State Correctional Facility, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

Cognitive behavioral therapy sessions form the cornerstone of rehabilitation initiatives at Northern State Correctional Facility, establishing a comprehensive framework that addresses the multifaceted needs of residents through evidence-based interventions. The facility's approach emphasizes skill development and behavioral modification, recognizing that sustainable reintegration requires addressing underlying thought patterns and decision-making processes. These therapeutic initiatives typically operate alongside educational and vocational components, creating an integrated system where residents may engage with multiple services simultaneously to maximize their potential for successful community reentry.

Educational services often encompass both foundational literacy programs and advanced academic coursework, allowing residents to pursue their individual learning goals regardless of their entry skill level. The facility may deliver instruction through various modalities, including classroom-based learning and individualized tutoring sessions that accommodate different learning styles and schedules. Also, vocational programs typically provide hands-on training in trades and technical skills, offering residents practical experience that translates directly to employment opportunities upon release. These initiatives often include apprenticeship-style components where residents may develop expertise in areas such as construction, culinary arts, or maintenance services.

Therapeutic services extend beyond individual counseling to encompass specialized group sessions that address specific challenges residents may face during incarceration and reentry. Parenting classes typically form a significant component of these offerings, helping residents maintain and strengthen family connections while developing effective child-rearing strategies. Also, identification document assistance may provide crucial support for residents preparing for release, helping them navigate the complex process of obtaining essential documentation such as birth certificates, social security cards, and state identification. These comprehensive support initiatives often work in conjunction with case management services to ensure residents receive coordinated assistance tailored to their specific circumstances and reentry goals.

Daily Life & Visitation

The steady rhythm of count times, meal service, and scheduled activities now forms the backbone of each day, delivering a predictable framework that residents regularly depend upon for stability. This carefully structured approach typically begins before dawn with morning count and continues through evening lockdown, with each segment of the day generally allocated for specific purposes including work assignments, educational programming, meals, and personal time. The consistent scheduling helps residents establish routines that may support their adjustment and rehabilitation goals.

Living accommodations at the facility typically consist of housing units where residents are assigned based on various factors including security classification and program participation. Residents usually share cells or dormitory-style housing, with personal property allowances that generally include basic clothing, hygiene items, and limited personal effects. Also, the commissary system allows residents to purchase additional items such as snacks, toiletries, and writing materials, providing some personal choice within the structured environment. Meals are typically served in dining halls at designated times, with menus that aim to meet basic nutritional requirements while accommodating certain dietary restrictions.

Programming schedules deliver various opportunities for skill development, education, and personal growth throughout the week. Work assignments may include facility maintenance, kitchen duties, laundry services, or other institutional operations that help maintain daily operations while providing residents with work experience. Also, recreational activities typically include access to gymnasium facilities, outdoor recreation areas, and organized sports when weather and security considerations permit. However, family connections remain vital through scheduled visitation periods and telephone privileges, with communication policies that generally allow residents to maintain contact with approved family members and friends, supporting their connection to the community during their incarceration.